If Collins can continue to improve in his coverage - he will take many TE's. If he needs Safety help - here comes Ryan. Ryan could also be used in a FS role - just in a smaller zone with McCourty on the field. He can provide Safety help underneath knowing deep is covered by McCourty. I don't know how it will work out or what the plans are, but Ryan is a good ball hawk - and I think that is the skill they need to exploit - considering he continues to develop. No doubt this will be one athletic D - and pretty young to boot. I am excited to see this D in action. Here's to a season of good health.
They have really good positional flexibility overall, despite the lack of depth at LB. It is going to be really interesting watching them mix and match against opposing offenses. Belichick and Patricia are going to have numerous options for taking away the best offensive player's on opposing offenses.